Since 2003, each September has been designated as Life Insurance Awareness Month. Like most awareness-raising campaigns, Life Insurance Awareness Month was created because there is an overwhelming lack of understanding of the product among the general public. Each year, the Life Insurance Market Research Association (LIMRA)puts out the results from a recent survey, and unfortunately, the numbers they report continue to be discouraging.

A recent survey found that 76 percent of people polled did not have a personal financial advisor. Sixty-eight percent of that same survey group said their opinion of the current economic conditions was somewhat unfavorable or very unfavorable.

In other words, a majority of those surveyed were uncomfortable with the economy and the uncertainty it brings, yet they did not seek professional assistance. Maybe they spoke with their friends and family. Maybe they hoped the instability would go away on its own. Maybe they did not know to whom to turn.

The Knights of Columbus can provide you stability and products you need and can afford. Please remember that as a member of the Knights of Columbus, you have a full-time, professional agent you can call your own. My primary responsibility is the care and service of your family’s life insurance, retirement, disability income and long-term care needs. I’ll answer your questions because I want your decisions to be informed ones. I want to help.

Another LIMRA statistic said 43 percent of people did not buy life insurance because they worry about “making the wrong decision.” A good number of those without life insurance realize the need and value of coverage; but are overwhelmed by the choices and types of policies available. Talk with me, and, afterwards, you’ll understand that the only wrong decision was not protecting your family’s future sooner.

The Second Annual Knights of Columbus Family Picnic is scheduled for Sunday, September 30, 2012 starting at 3:00 pm with dinner at 4:30 pm, at Country Club Glen Park, 16335 Sheridan Avenue, Clive. The park is north of Hickman between 156th St. and Alice’s Road. The Council covers the cost of the picnic (hamburgers, brats, hotdogs, baked beans, potato salad, and of course… beverages) as a way of saying “Thank you” to all the members, and especially the families, for everyone’s commitment to the Knights all year long! You are welcome to bring a salad or dessert to share, if you wish.

This picnic allows us to socialize with brother Knights and to gather our families together. We will have some games for the kids to play. This is a great opportunity for all Knights who cannot make the usual monthly meetings to meet the officer group and receive updated information on the latest council activities. Bring a friend who wants to know more about the Knights!